Aliza Lavie

A compelling collection of Jewish women's private devotions compiled by a political scientist at Bar-Ilan University. An expanded translation of 2005's Tefillat Nashim, this work focuses on events of importance in the lifecycle of Jewish women, as well as the major holidays. Most texts are in Hebrew and English, with the occasional addition of a Yiddish text. The sources for the prayers are not exclusively Ashkenazi - Sephardic communities and traditions are well represented.

There have been books of Jewish women's prayers and devotions for several centuries. However, these were often little known outside of their communities of origin, published privately, or in limited distribution (with some exceptions, such as Fanny Neuda's devotional book). "A Jewish Woman's Prayer Book" attempts to address this question, as well as including some humanistic and universal prayers alongside more traditional and/or conservative wording. it is accessible to scholars and layfolk alike and the bibliography is an excellent starting point for researchers wishing to go further with the topic. The book should be in general release by Nov. 2008 and would be a good choice for both individual and institutional purchases.

- S. Larson Lewis 3 NOV 2008… (more)